SPECIAL SECTION: NUTRITION & WELLBEING
KATE _ SEPT2004 / GETTYIMAGES. COM
Swap phones for people
We tend to spend too much time on our phones. So, put it down and look up and around you. Pay attention to things outside your device. Take a moment and think. Is there at least one person in your life you haven’ t talked to in a while? Pick up your phone only if that person is not within walking distance, and use it to either make a plan to get together or have a proper conversation with that person.
Do mundane things together
Running errands can feel like a drag, but getting groceries, cooking, doing the dishes, picking up mail or cleaning the house can feel quicker when you’ re chatting with someone.
If you live with family or roommates, make mundane activities more fun by doing them together. Make it a priority to have meals together, at least once a day.( If you live in a busy environment and doing errands is your chance to get a break from a chaotic day, that’ s OK too.)
Walk daily with a friend
Research consistently shows that people who walk regularly are more likely to be healthy, feel well emotionally and even experience more creativity. Walking with a companion means sharing these positive effects with another person. New to the area or living alone? Make plans for a daily walk with a neighbour.
Love your local community
Getting involved in your local community doesn’ t have to mean organising a fundraiser or attending neighbourhood meetings. You can engage in simple yet practical ways to help you stay connected. For example, when you’ re outside, make eye contact with a passerby and say hello. Take a minute to check in with your neighbour if you are both in your front yards or driveways. Making an effort to get to know other people in your area will help you stay connected in your neighbourhood and develop a greater sense of belonging.
Work is your community too
We spend many of our waking hours working, so why not build relationships with co-workers? Stay connected in healthy ways by making plans to hike, visit the farmers’ market or share a meal together.
If you’ re a manager or business owner, allow time for your employees to connect with their co-workers every day and maybe even join in, but without monitoring or micromanaging. This will help your employees feel more connected and engaged at work, and more productive.
No matter where we come from or what our daily experiences are, we all benefit from positive human connection. Find small yet meaningful ways to stay connected.
COSTCO CONNECTION
Find items to help you stay connected in warehouses and on Costco. com. au.
32 | JUL / AUG 2024 COSTCO CONNECTION